NPR News Now: November 20, 2024, 3PM EST
NPR News Now delivers a comprehensive update on the latest developments in politics, international affairs, the economy, and science. Here are the key highlights from the November 20, 2024 episode:
Political Developments: Matt Gaetz and Recess Appointments
House Ethics Committee and Matt Gaetz Allegations
The House Ethics Committee is currently deliberating on whether to release a report addressing allegations of sex trafficking and illicit drug use involving former Congressman Matt Gaetz. President Elect Trump's nominee for Attorney General, Matt Gaetz, has begun meeting with Senate Republicans to build support ahead of his confirmation process.
Senator Kevin Kramer's Insight At [00:49], Senator Kevin Kramer remarked to CNN, "It surprised me a little bit that during a recent trip with President Elect Trump, the Gaetz matter was barely discussed," indicating potential complexities in the nomination process.
Unnamed Analyst on Gaetz's Credibility An unnamed analyst added at [00:59], "It tells me something about either the credibility of the testimony or not enough or for some reason the FBI looked into all this and decided not to move forward," suggesting factors influencing the committee's decisions.
Trump's Recess Appointment Strategy
President Trump is considering the use of recess appointments to expedite his administration's nominees, bypassing the Senate confirmation. This constitutional loophole, which dates back over 200 years, allows the president to appoint officials while the Senate is adjourned.
Windsor Johnston Explains Recess Appointments At [01:21], Windsor Johnston, NPR News, explained, "Recess appointments allow the president to put nominees in place while the Senate is adjourned... This maneuver will test Trump's grip on Senate Republicans."
Justin Crow on Political Maneuvering Political Science Professor Justin Crow commented at [01:42], "He's trying to give himself an alternate route to getting some of these people into office," and added, "testing the fealty of the Senate, testing just how much Senate Republicans are going to yield."
Humanitarian Crisis in Southern Gaza
Deteriorating Conditions and Bakery Closures
In southern Gaza, the hunger crisis is escalating as only three bakeries remain operational out of eight. The shutdown of five additional bakeries is attributed to shortages of flour and fuel, exacerbating the plight of approximately 2 million displaced Palestinians.
Scenes from Khan Yunis At [02:05], Aya Batrawi reports witnessing thousands queuing outside the sole functioning bakery in Khan Yunis:
"Thousands of men, women, and children stand outside the only functioning bakery... they've been standing here since 2am for a bag with a few loaves of pita bread."
Impact on Families NPR producer Anas Bhabha spoke with women in the crowd, highlighting their struggles:
"They say they're feeding their own children and orphans now in their care after Israeli airstrikes killed their parents."
Calls for Humanitarian Aid Aid organizations are urging Israel to permit more food supplies into Gaza and to secure aid routes from potential looting by armed gangs. However, Israel denies imposing restrictions on aid deliveries.
Economic Updates
Stock Market Fluctuations
The Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a decline, dropping [02:05]:
- Dow: Down 54 points at 43,214
- Nasdaq: Down 142 points
- S&P: Fallen 29 points
These movements reflect ongoing economic uncertainties affecting global markets.
Diplomatic Tensions and Market Impact NPR also reported that U.S. and Western embassies in Kyiv are closed for the day due to threats of significant Russian air attacks. This closure underscores heightened geopolitical tensions impacting financial markets.
International Affairs: Ukraine and Russia
Biden Administration's Strategic Moves
The Biden administration announced plans to supply anti-personnel mines to Ukraine, aiming to decelerate the advance of Russian forces in eastern Ukraine. Additionally, in a notable policy shift, President Biden has authorized Ukraine to deploy U.S.-made long-range missiles against targets within Russia.
Science Spotlight: Innovative Mollusk Shells
Heart Cockle's Sunlight-Channeling Architecture
A fascinating study revealed the intricate architecture of the heart cockle mollusk's shell, which allows efficient sunlight channeling for photosynthesis by internal algae.
Dakota McCoy on Shell Design At [04:13], Dakota McCoy, a biologist at the University of Chicago, explained:
"Tiny windows in the shells stream sunlight into their interiors, which the algae that live inside use to photosynthesize."
Potential Technological Applications McCoy noted that the shell's mineral crystals are organized into long, fiber-optic-like structures, potentially inspiring advancements in camera lens design and improving fiber optic technologies.
Ari Daniels on Scientific Implications Science reporter Ari Daniels highlighted the innovation:
"Because they look like stained glass windows."
Closing Notes
This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates critical issues from political maneuvering in the U.S., a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, economic downturns influenced by geopolitical tensions, and groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Stay informed with NPR for the latest updates and in-depth analyses.
Notable Quotes:
- Senator Kevin Kramer [00:49]: "It surprised me a little bit that during a recent trip with President Elect Trump, the Gaetz matter was barely discussed."
- Unnamed Analyst [00:59]: "It tells me something about either the credibility of the testimony or not enough or for some reason the FBI looked into all this and decided not to move forward."
- Justin Crow [01:42]: "He's trying to give himself an alternate route to getting some of these people into office."
- Dakota McCoy [04:13]: "Tiny windows in the shells stream sunlight into their interiors, which the algae that live inside use to photosynthesize."
This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive news covered in the episode.